The effect of laboratory experimentation along with graphical and data analysis on the learning of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in a high school biology classroom

This research project studied the effectiveness of using laboratory experimentation along with graphical and data analysis on the learning of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in a high school biology classroom. The goals were to address students' misconceptions and increase their retention and understanding of the concepts. Graphical and data analysis skills were emphasized to promote student achievement in other academic areas, personal situations, and the work force. The data collected and graphed during the laboratory experiments were also used to reinforce key concepts. The associated lecture material, demos, laboratory activities, assignments, quizzes, and tests were developed to complement the goals stated above. The effectiveness of this unit was determined using embedded assignments, lab write-ups, surveys, quizzes, subjective data, and pre/post test comparative analysis. The results from these assessments signify the unit was effective. This document also examines and critiques the day-to-day flow of the unit and the related lesson materials.